From baptisms to funerals: St. Michael in Bement holds final mass after 134 years

BEMENT, Ill. (WAND) - After serving the community for well over a century, St. Michael Catholic Church in Bement is closing its doors.

The church held its final mass at 3 p.m. Sunday. Though many mourned the loss of the church, members said it was a celebration of life.

"It's very sad because so many people had so many wonderful experiences here. It's about losing part of your family, but at the same time, just like a celebration of life, we're celebrating all of the happy times," said Trustee Molly Tracy.

Generations of families have worshipped here and formed life-long bonds with other members. From baptisms to funerals, many say they will cherish the memories created in the church. Saint Michael has brought more than a century of community-wide events. Tracy has been a parishioner for 35 years.

"All of my children have been coming to church since they were little babies. all of the celebrations of all of the holy days of the year, you know, baptizing new babies, weddings, funerals, all the wonderful parts of life are celebrated, have been celebrated in this church," Tracy said.

In a smaller town like Bement, Tracy said the church is an integral part of the community. Plans for the building have not been decided yet, but the St. Michael congregation will still worship together.

St. Michael was founded in 1891, according to St. Philomena's website.

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